Freeman's Food Intolerance FAQ's Guide

Thank you for your interest in my food needs. Because my intolerances are complicated, I have created this guide which I continue to update at https://tinyurl.com/FAWfood. If trying to feed me overwhelms you, I completely understand, and there is no need to attempt to. I am happy to make and bring my own food to events if that would ease your concerns. 

What symptoms do you get from reactive foods?

It varies as different foods cause different reactions. The symptoms include debilitating exhaustion and brain fog, GI problems, painful rashes, eczema, a racing heart, and being more susceptible to injuries. Symptoms arise minutes to days after eating the food.

What can you not eat? 

First, out of love for people, animals, and the planet I choose to eat a vegan diet. This means I do not eat animals (chickens, cows, pigs, fish, etc.) or animal products (milk, eggs, dairy products, honey) or foods made with these things. 

I try to eat healthy, so when possible I eat organic whole foods, and avoid sugary foods, fried foods, oils, and white/refined flours. I do not eat foods that contain high-fructose corn syrup, genetically modified foods, or trans fats/hydrogenated oils. 

As for a list of my safe and problematic foods, I wish I had clarity on that. Here are my best working guesses. 

What tips might be helpful for us to know? 

I appreciate it when dishes:

1. Use my safe foods as the main ingredients. For example: beans and rice as a dish, or in a burrito, or in a garlic-only (no onions) chili. Or a huge romaine salad. 

2. Have few ingredients. 

3. Use unrefined grains like brown rice and whole wheat flour. 

4. Have a list of ingredients (this is especially helpful at potlucks).

How do you eat out?

I eat out infrequently, but when I do, Mexican, Indian, Ethiopian, Thai, Chinese, or vegan restaurants work best for me to find something to eat. 

Why is there not more clarity around what you can eat? 

Unfortunately, my immune system mistakes some foods as hostile intruders that it needs to fight. The immune system has multiple way to attack intruders, some attacks (which cause my reactions) happen right after eating, but others happen up to 24 - 48 hours after eating. Unless I am eating only one food in a three day period, it is hard to know which food consumed caused which reactions. 

Thank you for your friendship, kindness, and understanding. :)